Record-Breaking Price Set for Markhor Hunting Permit in Gilgit-Baltistan
Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan – In a groundbreaking development for Pakistan’s wildlife conservation efforts, a Markhor hunting permit has sold for a record-breaking price in the 2025 trophy hunting season auction. The rare permit fetched over PKR 10 crore (approximately USD 370,000), making it the highest bid ever placed for a legal Markhor hunt anywhere in the world.
This achievement highlights not only the global appeal of the Markhor, Pakistan’s national animal, but also the success of the country’s community-based trophy hunting program. The initiative was designed to protect endangered wildlife while providing sustainable income to local communities who act as guardians of these species.
Legal Trophy Hunting and Conservation
Unlike illegal poaching, legal trophy hunting is strictly regulated by the Wildlife Department of Gilgit-Baltistan. Each year, a limited number of permits are auctioned under the supervision of conservation authorities. Eighty percent of the revenue generated from these auctions is allocated directly to local communities for development projects, including education, healthcare, and habitat protection.
This unique model incentivizes villagers to protect the Markhor population rather than hunt it illegally. As a result, the Markhor population in northern Pakistan has seen a remarkable recovery over the past two decades, earning praise from global wildlife organizations.
A Global Benchmark for Wildlife Auctions
Last year, a similar permit in Chitral was sold for USD 271,000, which was already considered a major milestone. However, the latest auction has shattered all previous records, setting a new global benchmark for trophy hunting permits.
Wildlife experts believe the high bid reflects growing international interest in ethical, conservation-focused hunting programs. “This result shows that when conservation and community development go hand in hand, the outcome is beneficial for everyone—humans and wildlife alike,” said a representative of the Gilgit-Baltistan Wildlife Department.
Future of Trophy Hunting in Pakistan
The record price has sparked discussions among conservationists and policymakers about expanding community-based conservation models to other endangered species across the country. The success of the Markhor trophy hunting program is now being studied as a model for sustainable wildlife management that can balance economic development with biodiversity preservation.
With the latest auction making global headlines, Pakistan is once again on the map as a leader in innovative conservation strategies. For local communities, the proceeds from the auction represent an opportunity to improve living standards while continuing to protect one of the country’s most iconic species.
